Miami, Florida 33136
About the Division of Adolescent Medicine
Adolescence generally is a healthy time period of life. Many adolescents are uncomfortable seeking medical care, feeling too mature for a pediatrician and too young for their parents’ physician. The University of Miami’s Division of Adolescent Medicine is poised to handle the needs of this unique population, at the same time as it provides educational opportunities for trainees in this special area. The MDs are faculty members of the Department of Pediatrics.
Members of the multidisciplinary staff diagnose and treat the full range of health issues seen in adolescent boys and girls. These include problems of sexual development or identity; diseases and disorders of the female reproductive tract, such as menstrual problems, vaginitis, and contraceptive needs; infectious diseases, such as sexually transmitted infections and HIV/AIDS; maturational problems, such as delayed puberty and acne; developmental issues, such as school or learning difficulties; and psychosocial concerns such as eating disorders, substance abuse and depression. Specialty clinics for specific concerns are convened by the practitioners, as well.
They also treat many chronic or debilitating diseases, serving as primary care physicians and advocates for these adolescents and young adults. The physicians’ familiarity with the common psychological and social concerns of adolescents enables them to establish the rapport necessary to ensure an ongoing, productive doctor-patient relationship. In a time of life when risky behavior is an ongoing temptation, having a caring physician can produce lifelong benefits for youth.
This office is capable of routine primary health care of youth, as well. Most adolescent patients have outpatient care at the Mailman Center for Child Development. Adolescents needing surgery or hospitalization are cared for in the Adolescent Inpatient Unit at Holtz Children’s Hospital of UM/Jackson Memorial Medical Center. Some patients are seen at Jackson Memorial Hospital’s clinics, as well.
Most adolescent patients have outpatient appointments in the Mailman Center for Child Development. Adolescents needing surgery or hospitalization are cared for in the Adolescent Inpatient Unit at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
